ASEAN AI Safety Network secretariat will be based in Kuala Lumpur to promote safe and responsible artificial intelligence development across the region.
KUALA LUMPUR: The Secretariat of the ASEAN Artificial Intelligence Safety Network will be based in Kuala Lumpur.
Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo said this reaffirms Malaysia’s commitment to supporting the region’s digital priorities and building trusted regional digital governance.
He stated that ASEAN Digital Ministers endorsed the declaration on the network’s establishment, as adopted by ASEAN leaders at their 2025 summit in Kuala Lumpur.
“This is a significant milestone that reflects ASEAN’s commitment to advancing AI in a safe, trusted and responsible manner,” Gobind said in a statement.
The network will serve as a regional platform to strengthen cooperation on capacity building, regulatory preparedness and safeguard measures.
It aims to ensure AI innovation advances while risks and misuse are effectively addressed.
The statement was issued alongside the 6th ASEAN Digital Ministers’ Meeting held in Hanoi, Vietnam.
The meeting welcomed the adoption of the ASEAN Digital Masterplan 2026-2030 as a key pillar of regional digital integration.
“ADM 2030 will guide the updating of national digital strategies across ASEAN Member States, ensuring stronger regional coordination and impactful implementation,” Gobind said.
Ministers also adopted the ASEAN Guide for Sustainable Data Centre Development, initiated by Malaysia.
This guide reflects ASEAN’s commitment to aligning digital infrastructure growth with sustainability goals.
It provides policymakers with tools to build a data centre industry that drives economic growth while prioritising environmental sustainability.
The guide will support developing efficient, resilient and environmentally responsible data centres.
Gobind also met with ASEAN Secretary-General Dr Kao Kim Hourn in Hanoi, reaffirming Malaysia’s commitment to the region’s digital future.
They emphasised accelerating the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement as a key driver of future economic growth.
Gobind said DEFA holds strong economic potential by enabling greater cross-border digital trade and strengthening interoperability.
It can help unlock new growth opportunities for micro, small and medium enterprises across ASEAN.
The agreement aims to lower barriers to participation in the regional digital economy and expand customer reach.
Gobind said Malaysia remains committed to working with ASEAN members to build a secure, sustainable and inclusive digital future.
This future should create tangible opportunities for all and strengthen ASEAN’s global digital competitiveness.
